One of the hardest things for an individual to adjust to after a stroke is the increased level of dependence they have on others. If your parent, grandparent, or relative has recently had a stroke, check out the following tips which can help you ensure comfort and enhance recovery, while also ensuring feelings of dignity and independence.
- Be informed. The risk of a recurrent stroke is as high as 40% in older adults, making it of the utmost importance for families to learn what lifestyle habits can be adopted to reduce stroke risk. Family members should also become familiar with their loved one’s care plan, medications, and therapies to ensure a safe, healthy, and effective recovery at home.
- Be present. The inability to perform a simple daily activity can leave your loved one with feelings of frustration. Make sure he or she has the support needed to complete important daily activities like cooking, bathing, and dressing so a sense of independence can be retained. If you are unavailable to provide assistance, look into hourly home care in Vancouver, a service that can provide your loved one with professional and compassionate in-home care on an as-needed basis.
- Be patient. The most noticeable gains in recovery typically happen in the first few months following the stroke, but some seniors may continue to see progress over the next two to three years. Your loved one will likely feel impatient during this time, but your willingness to work with them both in the short and long-term can provide them with reassurance.
- Be alert. Depression, often the result of a loss of independence, is common in senior stroke survivors. Family members will need to keep an eye out for warning signs of depression such as increased irritability, extreme mood swings, and withdrawal so that appropriate care can be provided. Seniors who are able to maintain a positive outlook often enjoy faster, safer, and more efficient stroke recovery.
- Be encouraging. Seniors often fear being a burden on the ones they love, especially in the case of a senior parent and his or her adult children. Alleviate your loved one’s fear by providing constant encouragement and keeping a positive outlook. You can also look into hourly or live-in home care services to help shift some of the care responsibility to a caregiver who is trained to provide stroke care.
For more information about providing post-stroke recovery care, reach out to Home Care Assistance Vancouver. We are a trusted provider of stroke home care in Vancouver, offering highly trained caregivers, flexible care schedules with no long-term contracts, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call an experienced Case Manager today at (778) 279-3634 and schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.